Obituary of Frank J. Van Cleaf, Jr.

Frank James Van Cleaf Jr., son of Frank and Muriel (Cook) Van Cleaf, passed away April 19, 2024 at the age of 77 after a long battle with lymphoma. 

A lifelong Staten Island resident, Frank obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of Staten Island and worked at the Navy Finance Center.

Frank had an ever-inquisitive mind and a wry sense of humor.  He was a voracious reader, devouring at least one book a week and always seeking to understand both sides of an issue.  

He enjoyed gardening and was an excellent chef who continually experimented with different ingredients and cooking approaches.          

He is survived by his cousins Harold Cook, Richard Cook and John Maddox and their families, who will miss him, his kindness and his enthusiastic approach to life.  Why not have dessert after breakfast? 

A memorial service will be held at Matthew Funeral Home on Thursday, May 9, 2024.  Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. and the service at 10:30 a.m.  Burial at the Moravian Cemetery will follow.